By Marilyn Evans

One of the conversations I have most often with clients—especially those who have spent years building their financial security—is about the role of “fun” in a well-designed financial plan. It always makes people smile a bit, because it’s not a topic most of us were taught to talk about. Many clients grew up with messages that money is for bills, savings, responsibility, or emergencies… but not enjoyment.
What I remind clients is simple: a financial plan is supposed to support your life, not restrict it. And part of a well-lived life includes enjoyment, connection, experience, and moments that bring energy—not just obligation.

There’s also research behind this. Studies highlighted by the American Psychological Association show that positive experiences and leisure activities can reduce stress, support emotional well-being, and contribute to a greater sense of life satisfaction.¹ And when clients feel more balanced emotionally, they tend to make steadier, more grounded financial decisions. In other words, enjoyment helps the numbers work better too.

Fun spending isn’t about splurging. It’s about intention. It’s choosing the experiences or items that actually add meaning—whether that’s a trip with family, a hobby that fuels creativity, a weekend getaway, or simply a dinner that becomes a great story. When clients get clear about the types of experiences that truly enrich them, those choices stop feeling indulgent and start feeling aligned.

A big part of this conversation is helping clients distinguish between “default” spending and meaningful spending. Many people end up spending out of convenience or habit, which rarely feels rewarding. But when the spending aligns with their values—time with loved ones, learning something new, reconnecting with themselves—the emotional return is much higher.

This is also where structure helps. When clients intentionally build enjoyment into their plan—whether monthly, quarterly, or annually—they feel freedom instead of guilt. It becomes a budget category, not a surprise. Some even create a dedicated “experience fund,” which research from the Journal of Consumer Psychology suggests can increase overall happiness by giving people something to anticipate.²

When clients feel hesitant, I often ask a few grounding questions:
• What experiences give you energy or make you feel most alive?
• What memories do you want to create in the years ahead?
• How can your financial plan support those things—not compete with them?
• What amount of enjoyment spending feels good, not stressful?

The answers almost always bring relief. People realize they don’t need permission—they simply need a plan.
The truth is, financial planning isn’t just about security. It’s also about joy, meaning, and the quality of your days. When enjoyment is included intentionally, clients often feel more balanced, more fulfilled, and more connected to the life they’re working so hard to build.
Fun spending isn’t the opposite of responsibility. It’s part of a healthy, grounded financial life—and one that’s worth planning for.

Compliance-Friendly Note
:
This material is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as individualized tax, legal, or investment advice. Clients should consult with their tax professional, legal advisor, and financial advisor before making decisions related to financial planning strategies.

Sources
American Psychological Association – Leisure, Stress, & Well-Being
https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2015/impact
Journal of Consumer Psychology – Happiness & Experiential Spending

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1057740816300786
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau – Financial Well-Being Research
https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/financial-well-being/